Scottish independence: LGBT groups present cases

PRO- and anti-independence groups from Scotland’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community are expected to be out in force at tomorrow’s annual Glasgow Pride parade in the hope of attracting support from about 7,000 expected attendees.

Yes LGBT, which is campaigning for a vote for independence in September’s referendum, said the country could be transformed into a “progressive beacon” after separation.

LGBT Together, part of the pro-Union Better Together campaign, countered that the UK is the best place to be LGBT in Europe.

Stewart McDonald, of Yes LGBT, said: “Just this week the Prime Minister has appointed a Minister for Equality who voted against equal marriage, a Foreign Secretary who wants to take us out of the EU and a Treasury Minister who wants to cut Scotland’s budget.

“If ever you needed proof of how out of touch Westminster is, then David Cameron showed it this week.

“The opportunities of independence, however, allow our country to do things differently and better.

“It gives us, for the first time ever, the chance to enshrine LGBT rights into a written constitution.

“That in itself is a huge opportunity to make a bold statement as a nation and advance the cause of equality.”

LGBT Together activist Darren Young said: “The UK’s LGBT rights record is something that people right across these isles can be proud of.

“The UK has now been voted the best place to be LGBT in Europe three years running.

“When we march we will be making the positive case that it’s good to be LGBT in the UK and that we can do even more to further LGBT rights by working together.

“The UK has the largest diplomatic network of any nation on Earth and our embassies fight for LGBT rights across the globe.

“We will be marching in solidarity with LGBT people across the UK. Where is the sense in breaking up something that works well?”